Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Cricket: Head-to-Head and Rankings

Note (September 2026): This page previously gave the head-to-head as 37 matches, Bangladesh ahead 21–16 with ODIs 11–8; it had missed Afghanistan’s 3–0 ODI series win in October 2025, so the record is now 40 matches, Bangladesh 21–19, with ODIs level 11–11. The 2025 ranking figures, the Test head-to-head summary and some player details were also out of date and have been corrected.

Bangladesh lead the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh cricket head-to-head 21–19 across 40 men’s internationals, as of September 2026. The Test record is 1–1, the ODI record is level at 11–11 after Afghanistan’s 3–0 series win in October 2025, and Bangladesh lead T20 internationals 9–7. In the ICC rankings, Afghanistan are higher in ODIs and Bangladesh in Tests and T20Is.

Key Takeaways

• Overall: 40 matches, Bangladesh 21 wins, Afghanistan 19 (as of September 2026).
• By format: Tests 1–1, ODIs 11–11, T20Is 9–7 to Bangladesh.
• Latest series: Bangladesh won the T20Is 3–0 and Afghanistan the ODIs 3–0 in the UAE in October 2025.
• ICC rankings (September 2026): ODI Afghanistan 8th, Bangladesh 9th; T20I Bangladesh 8th, Afghanistan 10th; Test Bangladesh 6th, Afghanistan unrated.
• Next meetings: a one-off Test from 9 to 13 October 2026 and a tri-series ODI on 21 October 2026, both in the UAE.

When it comes to thrilling cricket rivalries in Asia, the contest between Afghanistan and Bangladesh is rapidly gaining prominence. The two teams have met in all three formats since 2014, most recently in a six-match white-ball tour in the UAE in October 2025, and they are scheduled to meet again in the UAE in October 2026. Bangladesh still holds a slight edge in overall wins, but Afghanistan’s rapid rise in recent years has made this matchup more exciting than ever.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh cricket rivalry in 2026 — from their current standings, head-to-head statistics, ICC rankings, to detailed match history. Whether you’re a new cricket fan or a seasoned follower, this guide covers it all in simple, clear language.

Understanding the Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Rivalry

The cricket rivalry between Afghanistan and Bangladesh is more than just numbers on paper. It represents two nations with growing cricketing ambitions, competing hard to prove their mettle on the international stage. Bangladesh, a Test-playing nation since 2000, brings experience and a solid cricketing infrastructure. Afghanistan, a relatively newer team, has rapidly climbed the ranks through impressive performances, especially in limited-overs cricket.

As of September 2026 the teams have not played each other this year; Bangladesh did not take part in the 2026 T20 World Cup, and their next scheduled meetings are a one-off Test and a tri-series ODI in the UAE in October 2026. This rivalry also highlights how cricket is expanding beyond traditional powerhouses.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Cricket Team Standings at a Glance

Summary: As of September 2026, Bangladesh lead the overall head-to-head 21–19 and are ranked higher in Tests and T20Is, while Afghanistan are ranked higher in ODIs and have drawn level 11–11 in ODI meetings. Afghanistan’s rapid growth keeps this rivalry close in every format. Both teams have promising squads and exciting future prospects.

Disclaimer: The ranking and recent-form rows of this table were compiled in June 2025 and are kept for reference, with current rankings added in brackets; the head-to-head rows were corrected in September 2026 to include Afghanistan’s 3–0 ODI series win in October 2025. Rankings and stats change with every international fixture.

Current Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Cricket Standings

To understand where these teams stand today, let’s look at the ICC cricket rankings and recent performances:

• Test Rankings: Bangladesh is ranked higher. As of September 2026 Bangladesh are 6th in the ICC men’s Test rankings, their best-ever position, while Afghanistan have no Test rating because they have not played the minimum eight Tests the ranking system requires within its cycle.

• ODI Rankings: Afghanistan is currently ranked higher. As of September 2026 Afghanistan are 8th (rating 92) and Bangladesh 9th (rating 83) in the ICC men’s ODI rankings, and Afghanistan won the most recent ODI series between the sides 3–0.

• T20I Rankings: Bangladesh is currently ranked higher. As of September 2026 Bangladesh are 8th (rating 224) and Afghanistan 10th (rating 220) in the ICC men’s T20I rankings, and Bangladesh have won the last four T20Is between the sides.

These rankings reflect the competitive balance between the two sides and how every match influences their standing.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh: The Overall Head-to-Head

Across all three formats the two sides have met 40 times in men’s internationals (as of September 2026). Bangladesh lead 21–19. The split by format is Tests 1–1 from two matches, ODIs 11–11 from 22, and T20 internationals 9–7 to Bangladesh from 16.

The two Tests are a study in extremes. Afghanistan won the first, at Chattogram in September 2019, by 224 runs. Bangladesh won the second, at Mirpur in June 2023, by 546 runs.

In recent form, Bangladesh won a three-match T20 international series 3–0 in Sharjah in October 2025, and Afghanistan then won the three-match ODI series 3–0 in Abu Dhabi, by five wickets, 81 runs and 200 runs. The ODI series between the sides in November 2024 went to Afghanistan, who won the first match by 92 runs and the third by five wickets after Bangladesh took the second by 68.

For the longer history of the fixture, see our Afghanistan vs Bangladesh match timeline.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Head To Head: A Detailed Look

When we talk about head-to-head stats, Bangladesh holds a slight lead overall. However, the gap has been narrowing as Afghanistan continues to improve.

• ODI clashes: The ODI record is level at 11–11 (as of September 2026) after Afghanistan won five of the last six ODIs between the sides.

• T20I battles: Bangladesh lead 9–7 and have won the last four meetings, including a 3–0 series win in Sharjah in October 2025.

• Test matches: The Test record is level at 1–1: Afghanistan won at Chattogram in 2019 and Bangladesh won at Mirpur in 2023.

The head-to-head record highlights a rivalry filled with unpredictable moments and intense competition.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh ODI Record

In One Day Internationals, Bangladesh won 10 of the first 16 meetings up to the 2023 World Cup, but the record is now level at 11–11 after Afghanistan won five of the six ODIs played in November 2024 and October 2025. Bangladesh’s consistent batting line-up and experienced bowlers have often given them an edge.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, has shown remarkable growth, especially with young talents rising and making a mark in international cricket. Their spin attack has troubled Bangladesh in many games, making ODI contests closely fought affairs.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh T20I Record

In the shortest format, both teams bring exciting, high-energy cricket. Afghanistan’s aggressive batting style and varied bowling options make them dangerous opponents. Bangladesh balances youth and experience, often showcasing tactical depth.

Their T20I encounters have been some of the most exciting, with games frequently decided in the last few balls. This makes their T20 rivalry a must-watch for fans craving adrenaline-filled cricket.

Ireland Cricket Team vs India National Cricket Team Timeline.

Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Test Record

Tests between Afghanistan and Bangladesh are limited but significant. Bangladesh’s longer experience in Test cricket shows in their overall Test record, but the head-to-head between these two sides is level at 1–1.

Afghanistan’s recent entry into Test cricket means they are still gaining experience. However, their determination and improving skills hint at a promising future, where they could challenge Bangladesh more fiercely.

Comparing Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh: Team Performance Stats

Looking closely at performance metrics reveals more about how the two teams stack up:

• Batting: Bangladesh has seasoned batsmen with solid averages, while Afghanistan features young, aggressive players capable of game-changing innings.

• Bowling: Afghanistan’s spinners, particularly Rashid Khan, are world-class, while Bangladesh offers a balanced attack with pace and spin.

• Fielding: Both teams have improved fielding standards, crucial in tight matches.

This comparison shows that while Bangladesh currently holds an edge, Afghanistan’s progress makes every match competitive.

Key Players Shaping the Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Rivalry

Individual stars often decide matches in this rivalry. Let’s look at the key players for both sides:

• Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan (all-rounder; has not played for Bangladesh since October 2024), Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper-batter; Tests only since retiring from ODIs in March 2025), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (spin-bowling all-rounder)

• Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (spinner), Mohammad Nabi (all-rounder), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (batsman)

These players bring experience, skill, and leadership, influencing match outcomes and elevating the rivalry’s excitement.

Recent Match History: Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh

The most recent matches between Afghanistan and Bangladesh were played in the UAE in September and October 2025; as of late September 2026 the sides have not met this year. Both teams have exchanged wins in bilateral series and tournament encounters, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Notable moments from recent games include Bangladesh’s two-wicket win with five balls to spare in the second T20I at Sharjah, Afghanistan bowling Bangladesh out for 93 to win the third ODI in Abu Dhabi by 200 runs, and Rashid Khan’s 11 wickets in that ODI series.

What The Future Holds For Afghanistan Vs Bangladesh Cricket

The future of this cricket rivalry looks bright. Afghanistan’s cricket team ranking continues to rise, signaling a stronger challenge to Bangladesh’s established position. Both teams are investing in youth development, infrastructure, and international exposure.

Upcoming ICC tournaments and bilateral series will further define who leads the rivalry in the coming years. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters, memorable performances, and a deepening cricketing bond between these neighboring countries.

Afghanistan National Cricket Team vs Bangladesh National Cricket Team Timeline.

Conclusion

The Afghanistan vs Bangladesh cricket rivalry in 2026 is a fascinating blend of tradition, talent, and ambition. Bangladesh currently lead the overall head-to-head 21–19 and the T20I record 9–7, with the Test and ODI records level, but Afghanistan’s rapid rise and improving performances make this matchup unpredictable and exciting.

Whether it’s the limited-overs thrill or the longer Test battles, this rivalry offers something for every cricket fan. Staying updated on their standings, match stats, and player performances will help you appreciate the depth and growth of this competitive cricketing relationship.

Websites to Watch Live Cricket TV Online.

Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Head-to-Head Record by Format

The Afghanistan vs Bangladesh head-to-head record stands at 21–19 in Bangladesh’s favor across Tests, ODIs and T20 internationals, based on completed men’s international matches up to September 2026. The table below breaks the record down by format.

Counts exclude matches abandoned without a ball being bowled, such as the rain-ruined final of the 2019 tri-series in Bangladesh, after which the two teams shared the trophy.

Latest Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Results

The most recent Afghanistan vs Bangladesh results show the balance swinging by format: Bangladesh have taken the recent T20 internationals, while Afghanistan have dominated the recent ODIs.

The 546-run win at Mirpur in 2023 is Bangladesh’s biggest Test victory by runs. Afghanistan’s 224-run win at Chattogram in September 2019, under Rashid Khan, was their first Test win overseas, and Rashid became the youngest captain to win a Test.

What happened in the most recent series?

The October 2025 series between Afghanistan and Bangladesh in the UAE was split by format. Bangladesh swept the three T20Is in Sharjah 3–0, with Nasum Ahmed named player of the series. Afghanistan then swept the three ODIs in Abu Dhabi 3–0: Ibrahim Zadran was player of the series with 213 runs, and Rashid Khan took 11 wickets. Bangladesh were bowled out for 109 and 93 in the last two ODIs.

Current ICC Rankings: Afghanistan vs Bangladesh

As of September 2026, Afghanistan are ranked higher than Bangladesh in ODIs, while Bangladesh are ranked higher in Tests and T20Is, according to the ICC men’s team rankings (Test table dated 12 September 2026, T20I table 22 September 2026).

Bangladesh reached 6th in the Test rankings, their best-ever position, in August 2026, having climbed to seventh after a 2–0 home Test series win over Pakistan in May 2026. Afghanistan, who became a Full Member of the ICC in 2017 and played their first Test in 2018, do not play enough Tests to hold a Test rating. ICC ratings are recalculated after every series, so these positions change often.

Why the Sides Did Not Meet at the T20 World Cup

Afghanistan and Bangladesh have not played each other in 2026 up to late September. The likeliest meeting, at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, did not happen because the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in January 2026 after the Bangladesh Cricket Board declined to play its matches in India as scheduled. For the tournament’s results, see our T20 World Cup winners list.

When Do Afghanistan and Bangladesh Play Next?

Afghanistan and Bangladesh are next scheduled to meet in the UAE in October 2026, according to an Afghanistan Cricket Board announcement on 8 September 2026. Venues had not been confirmed at the time of that announcement.

• One-off Test: 9 to 13 October 2026, the third Test between the sides.
• ODI tri-series with Zimbabwe: 17 to 23 October 2026. Afghanistan play Bangladesh on 21 October, and the top two teams meet in the final on 23 October.

The Test will decide who leads the Test head-to-head, and the tri-series ODI will break the 11–11 tie in that format unless the match is washed out.

Player Updates That Change the Picture

Several players named in older previews of this fixture have changed roles or stepped away, so current squads look different.

• Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh): announced his T20I retirement in September 2024 and has not played international cricket since October 2024.
• Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh): retired from ODIs in March 2025 and last played a T20I in 2022, but continues to play Test cricket.
• Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan): retired from Tests in 2019 but was still playing ODIs and T20Is in 2026.
• Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan): replaced Rashid Khan as T20I captain in March 2026, as reported by ESPNcricinfo, and was player of the series in the October 2025 ODIs.
• Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): remains Afghanistan’s leading spinner and took 11 wickets in the October 2025 ODI series.

How to Follow Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Matches

Ball-by-ball coverage of Afghanistan vs Bangladesh matches is available through live score services; our guide to the best cricket score apps compares the main options. For context on how the two sides have fared at the 50-over World Cup, see the Cricket World Cup winners list, and for another of Afghanistan’s rivalries, read the Afghanistan vs England head-to-head. The debate over how many Tests smaller nations get is covered in how the ICC is keeping Test cricket alive.

FAQs

1. Who currently leads the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh cricket rivalry?

Bangladesh leads overall but Afghanistan is quickly closing the gap, especially in limited-overs formats.

2. What are the latest ICC rankings for Afghanistan and Bangladesh?

In 2025, Bangladesh ranks higher in Tests and ODIs, while Afghanistan is strong in T20Is.

3. How many matches have Afghanistan and Bangladesh played against each other?

They have played numerous ODIs and T20Is, but only a few Test matches so far.

4. Which team has a better ODI record?

Bangladesh holds a stronger ODI record historically, but Afghanistan’s recent form is impressive.

5. Are Afghanistan and Bangladesh evenly matched in T20 cricket?

Yes, their T20I contests are very competitive with exciting finishes.

6. Who have been the key players in this rivalry?

Watch Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi for Afghanistan; Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim for Bangladesh.

7. What should fans expect from future Afghanistan vs Bangladesh matches?

Expect closer matches, emerging stars, and thrilling cricket battles in all formats.

8. Where can I watch Afghanistan vs Bangladesh cricket games?

Matches are broadcast on major sports networks and streaming platforms worldwide.

9. What was the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh head-to-head record before the October 2025 ODI series?

Bangladesh lead 21–16 from 37 matches across all formats: Tests 1–1, ODIs 11–8 to Bangladesh, and T20 internationals 9–7 to Bangladesh.

10. Has Afghanistan beaten Bangladesh in a Test?

Yes. Afghanistan won their first Test against Bangladesh at Chattogram in September 2019 by 224 runs. Bangladesh won the return meeting at Mirpur in June 2023 by 546 runs, so the Test record stands at 1–1.

Who has won more matches between Afghanistan and Bangladesh?

Bangladesh have won more matches, leading 21–19 across 40 men’s internationals as of September 2026. The Test record is 1–1, ODIs are 11–11, and Bangladesh lead T20Is 9–7.

What is the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh ODI head-to-head?

The Afghanistan vs Bangladesh ODI head-to-head is level at 11–11 from 22 matches. Afghanistan drew level by winning the October 2025 series in Abu Dhabi 3–0.

Who won the last Afghanistan vs Bangladesh series?

In October 2025 in the UAE, Bangladesh won the T20I series 3–0 and Afghanistan won the ODI series 3–0. The last bilateral Test was won by Bangladesh at Mirpur in June 2023.

Is Afghanistan ranked higher than Bangladesh?

Afghanistan are ranked higher in ODIs (8th against 9th) as of September 2026, but Bangladesh are ranked higher in T20Is (8th against 10th) and in Tests, where Bangladesh are 6th and Afghanistan have no rating.

When is the next Afghanistan vs Bangladesh match?

The next Afghanistan vs Bangladesh match is a one-off Test in the UAE from 9 to 13 October 2026, followed by an ODI between them on 21 October 2026 in a tri-series that also includes Zimbabwe.

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